The Canadian government has its doubts about the necessity of eradicating Kaspersky Lab products from U.S. vital programs. However, the apprehensions over Russian interference in the U.S. election, proving to be more valid as the investigation continues, have prompted the Trudeau government to improve Canada’s own cybersecurity. Protecting sensitive data from cyberthreats is a constant battle for any organization, and considering recent global concerns, now is the time to address your own preventative cybersecurity measures.

Understand Your Vulnerabilities

One of the most prominent issues that organizations face is the lack of resources designated to address cybersecurity, as well as a complete lack of understanding of the technological processes necessary to alleviate risk. By better understanding the vulnerabilities that exist, whether they are specific to your industry or unique to your business, you can address the changes that need to be implemented to ramp up your cybersecurity strategy. You can also reduce vulnerabilities by identifying personnel who are capable of navigating threats that do occur, as well as investing in an insurance policy in the event of a security breach.

Incorporate Industry Standards

Taking a wait-and-see approach, or simply doing the bare minimum, is not enough. The Canadian government recognizes that to avoid a breach similar to what has occurred in the U.S., preventative measures must be put in place. It is no longer enough to incorporate damage control into budget discussions; organizations must be one step ahead of potential cyber threats. To do so, appropriate governance and compliance must be issued as an industry standard. Risk management should be a pivotal component of a progressive cybersecurity strategy, and employee cybersecurity training must be a requirement. Hackers are too advanced for organizations to take chances, and lack of awareness is no longer an excuse.

Develop a Response Plan

Does your cybersecurity strategy include a response plan? Although the goal is to avoid a breach altogether, cyberattacks are inevitable, and it is critical that you have a plan in place to rectify and minimize ensuing damages. A strong response plan involves a team of IT personnel dedicated to fixing the problem, monitoring for further intrusion, and containing the existing data breach. Information gained can then be used to prevent future breaches and adjust your strategy to strengthen the weaknesses that were exposed.

The interference of Russian propaganda exposed a critical weakness in the U.S. electoral system, and an entire year later, officials are only truly beginning to understand the extent of the breach. Malicious access to your systems can have devastating consequences, particularly if it goes undetected. Hackers will not wait for the challenge of a strong cybersecurity policy to test their abilities. They will exploit every weakness, reaping the benefits of a forgotten update or lax firewall. Now is the time to improve cybersecurity for your organization. As Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale stated, “In an inter-connected world and an inter-connected society and economy, you are only as strong as your weakest link.”

The ITeam understands the cybersecurity issues facing Alberta and Canada, and we are dedicated to helping Alberta businesses strengthen their cybersecurity. We are committed to helping Calgary- and Alberta-based businesses develop proactive, cost-effective IT strategies that minimize risk and maximize efficiency. Contact us to learn more.